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5 players who may have played their last NBA game

By Jono Perilli

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 06: Vince Carter #15 of the Atlanta Hawks shoots against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on March 06, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 06: Vince Carter #15 of the Atlanta Hawks shoots against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on March 06, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
(Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

#4: J.J. Barea

It’s been quite a year for J.J. Barea, who’s successfully slotted into the Dallas Mavericks‘ lineup as a suitable bench point guard. He’s actually had some time in the spotlight, mostly when Luka Doncic has been out with injury. Barea has always been a reliable player when it comes to playmaking and the occasional scoring efforts. Doncic has taken Barea’s minutes, but it’s been in good hands since Doncic has been a powerhouse this season.

Barea, who’s 35, has been with Mavericks for most of his career, though he did have a stint in Minnesota. Barea has always been a reliable point guard, being able to play his role to perfection alongside Dirk Nowitzki in the 2010-11 squad, that won a ring. He’s got a bit of gas left in the tank to compete in the NBA, but it could be likely that the veteran guard could retire depending on how this season ends.

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During the offseason, Barea signed a one-year veteran minimum deal with the Mavericks, which in itself, is a hint towards retirement. His possible final game came against the Denver Nuggets in a thumping win. Barea played sixteen and a half minutes, recording two points and four assists, certainly nothing special. Barea would actually be quite impressive when given the minutes, even having a fifteen point game with seven assists, in about twenty-two minutes.

It really depends on whether we’ll really see Barea in the NBA again. It’s likely, but not 100%. Barea still has a fair bit in the tank, so seeing him for one or two more seasons makes sense, especially if the Mavericks can have a deep playoff run with Doncic and Porzingis.